My First "Tapas Crawl"

Last night was my first, of what I hope to be many "tapas" nights, or, as I like to call it, my first "tapas crawl". Although I unfortunately don't remember the names of the places we ventured to, I most certainly remember what I at. Moving from place to place as a class, not only was I able to try the "tapas" I ordered, but I also tasted some of the dishes my new eating buddies had chosen. My favorite food of the night was "cochinillo asado", or roasted suckling pig. It was absolutely delicious, and the compliment of my "rebujito", a drink of white wine and Sprite, made for an incredible combination:

Above: Cochinillo Asado and Rebujito

I was able to try many delicious local foods while I was out, trying patatas alioli, patatas bravas, castillas (ribs), pulpo (octopus), etc. The most adventurous food I tasted though was thanks to Sheri, who ordered cow tongue. Believe it or not, it was surprisingly delicious. I’ve always said that while in Spain, I’ll try anything once, and cow tongue is something that I would most certainly eat again if given the chance:

Above: Patatas Alioli

Above: Castillas (Ribs) and Sangría

Above: Tostada con pulpo y gamba (Octopus and Shrimp) and Sidra (local hard cider)

But last night was only a small taste of what Spain has to offer. I’ve enjoyed a lot of pork dishes, but I’m a huge seafood guy and would love to venture into this part of Spanish cuisine. In class this week, we learned about “chipirones en su tinta”, translated to be “squid in its own ink”, and I want more than anything to try this. If I’m remembering correctly, it’s a little bit on the expensive side, but if given the opportunity, I’ll most certainly try it. I also really want to try various types of paella, and since it’s my host-mom’s favorite food, I’m sure I’ll be given the opportunity. Spain has not yet failed to both impress and excite me when it comes to food. With the weeks that lie ahead, I wait patiently with a smile on my face and an adventurous mindset to continue on this journey with Spanish food.